Pet franchise comes to area
Kevin McCormack understands how important pets are in people's lives.
He recently launched Wag N' Wash Healthy Pet Center in Naperville for pet owners who want something a little extra for their furry friends.
His franchise, the first of its kind in the Midwest, is a one-stop destination catering to a variety of pet owners needs, from healthy food and treats to bath facilities.
The shop at 3124 Route 59 features a line of all-natural foods as well as an on-site bakery where the entire selection of dog treats are made without additives or preservatives. "It's all made fresh daily with human-grade quality foods," McCormack said.
Fun treats include Doggie Daisies and Cini-mutts that sell for $9.99 a pound. Liver brownies and pumpkin ravioli with spinach are other fun picks. Meal loafs sell for $3.99 and birthday cakes in the shape of dog bones range from $7.99 to $14.99.
The business also offers a state-of-the-art, do-it-yourself dog washing facility. With custom waist-high washtubs, owners can scrub their pet clean with easy-to-use, handheld sprayers and a variety of combs, brushes, shampoos and conditioners. "Best of all, pet owners can leave the after-bath mess behind," McCormack said. The cost to bathe your pet ranges from $13 to $17.
The shop also features unusual toys and accessories not found at traditional retailers. Dog life jackets, reflective vests, vitamins and supplements are other items shoppers will find at the store.
The company is based in Colorado where McCormack, 40, lived and was a customer. He worked as a vice president at a start-up software company that he helped grow.
Growing up in Glenview, he wanted to move back closer to his family and decided to grow his own business.
An avid dog lover, he has a West Highland Terrier named Dublin.
The shop is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
For more information, call (630) 753-9663 or check out www.wagnwash.com.
Playing catch: The author of the best-selling book "Catch Me If You Can" speaks Tuesday in Oakbrook Terrace.
Frank W. Abagnale, an expert on forgery, embezzlement and secure documents, speaks at an 11:30 a.m. luncheon at Drury Lane Oak Brook at 100 Drury Lane.
Apprehended by the French police when he was 21, he served time in the French, Swedish and U.S. prison systems. After five years he was released on the condition that he would help the federal government, without remuneration, by teaching and assisting federal law enforcement agencies.
There is no charge for the program or lunch. To reserve a spot, call (630) 773-0350, ext. 450.